Windows 10 will be free, even if you pirated a previous version

Windows 10 is on track to make an appearance during this summer, and Microsoft has already announced that it will be a free upgrade for all current Windows 7 or later users. Thanks to piracy in China, it seems that all users means everyone. Even pirates.

We are upgrading all qualified PCs, genuine and non-genuine, to Windows 10. The plan is to “re-engage” with the millions of users in China, without elaboration. – Terry Myerson

Terry Myerson, who runs Microsoft’s operating systems unit, announced the plan at the WinHEC technology conference in Shenzhen, China. Reuters interviewed the man shortly afterwards, and he confirmed the news; plus he mentioned that the new Windows will be released globally “sometime during this summer”. This is a bold move from Microsoft, with Windows piracy in China alone estimated at about 75% of all installations.

Windows 10 is shaping up to be a very interesting release, and we will have coverage as long as the new beta build appears on our screens shortly.